Jay G. Church

Jay G. Church, 65, of Viola, Arkansas, passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024, in Viola, Arkansas. Jay was born to Jim Church and Joy (Fox) Church on March 10, 1959, in Wray, Colorado.  
  
Jay spent his working years at Salem High School teaching Science. He had a knack for inspiring minds both young and old alike. He was a 3rd generation rancher, and this was what he really enjoyed at heart. He lived his life raising his cattle and enjoying his ranch with his partner Tracie Anderson and his cow dog Louie. He was a High School Graduate of Ravenden Springs High School and went on to the University of Tennessee at Martin where he obtained his teaching degree and college rodeoed with many friends. He then went on to join the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association where he held a membership card for many years. He had a host of friends both two legged and four legged throughout the years. He always greeted everyone with a smile, was full of laughter, and was so fondly known for his jokes. In his later working years, he was a designated representative of the Arkansas Department of Health. He knew every backhoe driver and dump truck loader for many miles. He was a loving son, brother, father, uncle, and friend. 

Jay leaves to mourn his passing, loving partner, Tracie Anderson of the Ranch; daughter, Hannah Church Davidson (Shawn Davidson) of Clinton, Arkansas; sister, Jamie Church Patterson of Memphis, Tennessee; two nephews, Sam Patterson (Dana Patterson) of Memphis, Tennessee and Will Patterson of Memphis, Tennessee; many wonderful students and a host of Old Cowboy Friends. He was preceded in death by his parents (Jim and Joy Fox Church), brother (John Church) and nephew (Tom Patterson). 

The family will have a Celebration of Life at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.